Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

REPORTER: I have a question concerning Japan-Republic of Korea (ROK) relations. The Japan-ROK Foreign Ministers’ Meeting was held over the weekend and with regard to the inscription of world heritage sites in Japan, the ministers affirmed that the two countries will cooperate so that the sites are listed. However, the Government of the ROK has to date expressed its opposition to the listing of the sites in Japan, so what was the background that led to the confirmation that the two countries will now cooperate?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: In the meeting it was confirmed that Japan and the ROK, as responsible members of the World Heritage Committee, will coordinate to make the Committee a success, and will cooperate so that the sites being recommended by their respective countries are both listed.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: On a different topic, with regard to the statement on the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II that is expected to be released by the Prime Minister in the summer, some press reports are suggesting that the statement will not be subject to Cabinet approval. What is the current status with regard to compilation of the statement?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Discussions are currently taking place in the Advisory Panel on the History of the 20th Century and on Japan’s Role and the World Order in the 21st Century on the world order in the 21st century and the role Japan should play in it, among people from a wide variety of fields, including scholars who are deeply knowledgeable in history and politics, as well as journalists and business persons. After hearing various opinions from the Advisory Panel, the final decision on the new statement will be made by the Government, with the Prime Minister taking a leading role.

(Abridged)